How to Care for a Chocolate Mint Plant

The chocolate mint plant features dark-green purplish leaves and garners its name from the herb's flavor, which is akin to a chocolate-covered mint candy. Once harvested, the mint leaves are often dried and used as tea or chopped and consumed with fresh fruit. Mint is an ideal herb for gardeners of any skill level, as it requires little care beyond watering and thrives in the Western United States’ warmer climate. Provide your chocolate mint plant with the correct soil and sunlight to ensure it thrives.

1

Plant your mint in a partially shady or sunny area that features slightly acidic soil. Before planting, work 2 to 4 inches of manure and 1/2 tablespoon of 16-16-8 fertilizer per square foot of planting space into the soil. Space the mint rows at least two feet apart to allow for future growth.

2

Provide the mint with 1 to 2 inches of water per week, depending on the temperature and soil conditions. Maintain moist soil and avoid overwatering, as it can lead to issues, including root rot. If growing mint in a container, examine the soil often and don’t allow it to dry out completely. If dry, provide the soil immediately with the weekly drink.

3

Fertilize the mint again the follow spring. Mint only requires fertilizing once per season, as overfeeding can hamper the production of mint oil and lead to fungal infections, including rust. Provide 1 teaspoon of 16-16-16 fertilizer to each individual mint plant.

4

Harvest the mint prior to flowering, or when the plant reaches 3 to 4 inches in height. With proper care, it’s possible to harvest mint two to three times per season. Leave approximately 1 inch of growth behind and remove the plant’s leaves and stems with a sharp knife or scissors. Trimming the mint also promotes future, healthy growth.

Things You Will Need

Manure

16-16-8 fertilizer

16-16-16 fertilizer

Sharp knife or scissors

Tips

Consider planting mint alone in raised beds or containers, as the plant will quickly spread and take over the garden if not closely monitored.

Submerge your fresh mint in water and refrigerate for up to one week before consuming, freezing or dehydrating.

About the Author

Residing in Chippewa Falls, Wis., Jaimie Zinski has been writing since 2009. Specializing in pop culture, film and television, her work appears on Star Reviews and various other websites. Zinski is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in history at the University of Wisconsin.